§ 29. Mr. Tom Boardmanasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is his estimate of the percentage increase in the costs of laundries and dry cleaners resulting from Selective Employment Tax.
§ Mr. DiamondNo precise figures are available, but I estimate the effect to be roughly 6 per cent. to 8 per cent. for laundries and 3½ per cent. to 5 per cent. for dry cleaners.
§ Mr. BoardmanIs not the Chief Secretary aware that this tax has resulted in the closing of a large number of firms which calculate that the crarge is greater than the figures which he has given? Will he undertake to give some immediate relief to this very important service industry?
§ Mr. DiamondI am aware of the difficulties of the industry and I am aware that the hon. Member speaks with great authority on this matter. I shall certainly bear in mind what he said.